One of the most anticipated films of this 2023 is the real image version of ‘The Little Mermaid’. We will soon know to what extent it is different from the animated film released in 1989, but now a change has been made known that will give a lot to talk about: several songs have been modified to address the issue of consent.
Alan Menken’s explanation
Allan Menken created the songs for the original film together with the sadly deceased Howard Ashmannand it was he who announced this change in an interview with Vanity Fair, in which he revealed the following:
There are some changes to the lyrics of ‘Kiss Her’ because people are very sensitive about the idea that Prince Eric would force himself on Ariel in any way.
Let’s remember that that song sung by Sebastian focuses on encouraging Prince Eric to kiss Ariel, who at that moment does not have the ability to speak. Besides, It will not be the only theme that undergoes changesbecause the theme ‘Poor souls in disgrace’ has also had them:
In “Poor Unfortunate Souls” we went over some lines that could make girls feel like they shouldn’t speak when it’s not their turn, even though Ursula is clearly manipulating Ariel into giving up her voice.
times change and Disney is clear that it is time to adapt to them, but in this case I think the changes are a bit absurd, especially in the case of ‘Poor Unfortunate Souls’. In any case, I am more concerned about the possibility that we are facing another remake empty of meaning beyond its undeniable commercial pull, really.
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